When it comes to traveling to one of the biggest Asian cities, Hong Kong no doubt enters your mind. With its towering skyscrapers, bustling markets, crowded streets, buzzing complexes, and a glorious harbor, Hong Kong is a city that never sleeps. There are many exciting things to do such as visiting Disneyland, or eating at a Michelin-starred restaurant, but if you are someone looking for a unique experience while staying in Hong Kong then consider some of our best picks, where you’ll get the chance to discover places abound with history, culture, and nature. Find the best day trips from Hong Kong below.
1. Lantau (from USD 498.0)
Just an hour’s drive away from bustling Hong Kong lies the sublime Lantau Island which in recent years has become a very unique cultural spot for tourists. With its ornate temples, mountainous landscapes, and the unmissable, huge Buddha statue, this place is a real paradise for those seeking a rather laid-back experience. This can also be an ideal destination for enthusiastic hikers who can definitely choose from a numerous range of hiking trails. It is recommended to hike in the early mornings in order to experience the magnificent sunrise which is very much known in this region. Though Lantau is not only about its verdant setting, there is also a traditional fishing village on the west coast known as the ‘Venice of Hong Kong’, where you can take a boat ride to explore more.
Tip from Trip101 local expert
Discover the enchanting "Venice of Hong Kong" at Tai O fishing village, a hidden gem nestled in the remote corners of Lantau Island. Surrounded by mountains and adorned with traditional stilt houses, this ancient Southern Chinese fishing village is accessible by ferry or bus. If you're already exploring the Big Buddha and Ngong Ping 360 Cable Car, it's just a short hop away by bus or taxi.
Lantau Private Driving Tour From Hong Kong
Duration: 5 hours
2. Cheung Chau Island
Love birds will undoubtedly find this dumbbell-shaped-Cheung Chau Island a destination like no other. Located about 10 km (6.2 mi) southwest of Hong Kong, this place is a lover’s paradise but can also be a family destination for its serene and intimate setting. There is so much to explore here - from its Pak Tai Temple, where you can contemplate the Taoist architecture to its sublime Tung Wan beach and the secret Cheung Po Tsai Cave - every little place exudes an authentic experience. And to make your trip more adventurous, take a 20-minute cruise in a wooden sampan. But you can’t also leave without tasting the yummy local dim sum, which is quite renowned in the area.
Cheung Chau Island Discovery - Klook
Duration: 5hrsDuration
3. Zhuhai - Macau Bridge
Are you ready to cross earth’s longest sea bridge-tunnel while traveling the Pearl River Delta? Then take this amazing trip from Hong Kong to Zhuhai and Macau, a 55-km (34-mile) tunnel system consisting of a series of three cable-stayed bridges, an undersea tunnel, and four artificial islands. This can be one of the most exciting trips, where you will witness the glistening Pearl River, and admire the painstakingly longest bridge ever built.
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4. Shunde
Shunde could be lauded for its lush green parks and well-manicured gardens, yet its electrifying nightlife has made this city one of the most sought-after destinations among tourists. Its eclectic range of nightclubs, bars, restaurants, and lounges have made this city a-must-go destination to hang-out with friends and have fun.
5. Lamma Island
Touted for its excellent hiking trails, Lamma Island is definitely a must-go destination for nature lovers seeking for rejuvenating moments. But it can also be a perfect spot for love birds who are seeking unspoiled beaches and intimate settings. Besides its languid atmosphere, the island has more to offer. Visit the 19th-century Tin Hau temple and meet locals at the bucolic fishing villages. And don’t leave without tasting the fresh seafood at a traditional restaurant.
6. Mai Po Nature Reserve
One of the conscientious ways to explore and yet to enjoy your trip while traveling to Hong Kong is by visiting Mai Po Nature Reserve located in San Tin. This green estuary teems with rich wildlife notably the wetland birds is a true paradise for birdwatchers. This eco-tour is ideally for nature enthusiasts, children, and responsible travelers who want to learn more about nature conservation. It’s an exciting way to observe wildlife in its true setting.
Hong Kong Mai Po Nature Reserve Eco Tour - Klook
Duration: 3hrsDuration
7. Sai Kung (from USD 139.0)
If sun, beach, and adventurous hiking trails are things that excite you, then choose the Sai Kung day trip from Hong Kong. This verdant and serene peninsula offers nature adventurers an eclectic range of hiking trails that lead to awe-inspiring views of the virgin coasts. There are also bucolic fishing villages, where tourists can find unique seafood floating markets. After your hiking trip head to one of the local restaurants to relish some delicious seafood dishes.
Sai Kung Peninsula: Wild Beaches Hike and Tour from Hong Kong
Duration: 8 hours
8. Macau (from USD 155.0)
With its awe-inspiring architectures highly influenced by the colonial Portuguese and Cantonese culture, along with modern developments such as the towering Macau Tower, Macau is a destination you wouldn’t want to miss. Take a unique sightseeing day trip from Hong Kong, where you’ll board either a jetfoil or a catamaran and get ready to cruise across the open sea! Experience the warm, welcoming hospitality of the locals. Start this wonderful journey at Guia Circuit - the very place where the renowned Macau Grand Prix takes place annually. But if you’re seeking something unique and intriguing yet very cultural, then take a tour at A-Ma Temple whereby the Chinese sea goddess Mazu is revered. And if you’re someone who enjoys a bit of history then a stop at the ruins of the Cathedral St. Paul is a must. Don’t miss tasting the local delicacies in one of the local restaurants.
Macau Sightseeing Day Trip from Hong Kong With Lunch
Duration: 11 hours
9. Guangzhou (Canton) (from USD 244.0)
If culture, history, and animals are your kind of interests then opt for this wonderful trip from Hong Kong to Guangzhou (previously Canton) and expand your travel experience. Cruise in a local catamaran and make your way to the Shekou Industrial Zone-china’s first special Economic Zone. Learn about the locals’ daily life while interacting with them. Another interesting encounter you wouldn’t want to miss is the giant panda -China’s national animal at the Shenzhen Safari Park. And if you wish to meet more wonderful animal species then make a stop at the Xili Lake, where you’ll have the chance to meet the red-crowned cranes, Siberian tigers, and Asian elephants as well. For a historical tour, your next destination is at the Exhibition Hall in Shekou to learn about the Qin Dynasty terracotta warriors. Eventually, get to see China’s third-largest city, Guangzhou, where you’ll get the chance to take an urban landscape tour.
Guangzhou (Canton) China Day Trip from Hong Kong
Duration: 14 hours
10. Shenzhen (from USD 137.0)
Take a full-day trip at Shenzhen - a popular hubbub locally dubbed as ‘China’s Silicon Valley’. This vibrant city is a frequent tourist destination to discover the local culture, and many of its magnificent complexes where you can buy crafted products, gadgets, antique products, and trendy clothes. This full-day tour includes a leisure stroll at Lizhi Park in the morning, where you will meet locals doing their morning ritual - tai chi. In addition, you’ll get the chance to feast your eyes on the a 360-degree view of Shenzhen and Hong Kong at Meridian View Center in Shun Hing Square. Finish your day by trying several succulent local dishes by visiting some of the best-recommended restaurants in the area.
Shenzhen Sightseeing and Shopping Tour from Hong Kong
Duration: 12 hours
Explore hidden gems from Hong Kong
There’s so much to see both in and around Hong Kong. Whether you’re craving for the delicious dim sum, wanting to explore some amazing architecture or religious temples, or even hiking some off-the-beaten tracks, then choose your favorite day trip from our recommended list.
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